Claire L. O'Dowd

Claire L. (Pichette) O'Dowd, 91, of Allenstown, NH passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. A longtime resident of Manchester, NH, Claire was born on April 2, 1934. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who treasured her family above all.

She attended St. Joseph School for Girls and was an active parishioner at St. Raphael Church. During her career, Claire worked at JF McElwain Shoe Company, Computervision, and E+R Cleaners before retiring from Parkside Middle School.

Claire was married to Richard H. O'Dowd for 25 years until his passing in 1992. She is survived by her six children: Linda (John) Gouin of Pembroke, NH; Sandra (Kent) Comeau of Naples, Florida; Donna Muir of Belmont, NH; Kevin LaPerle of Myrtle Beach, SC; Kenneth LaPerle of Holtville, CA; and Keith O'Dowd of Portland, ME. Her legacy continues through her 10 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and many extended family members.

As one of eleven children born to Henry and Jeanne Pichette of Manchester, NH, Claire leaves behind three sisters-Frances Pichette, Pauline Begin, Lucille Marston-and a brother, Robert Pichette. She was predeceased by her sister, Constance Gagne and five brothers: Andre, Maurice, Albert, Richard, and Ronald Pichette.

Claire enjoyed reading, playing cards with her siblings, and attending bingo at the Cashin and Suncook Senior Centers as well as Foxwoods. Family gatherings brought her much joy, and she loved camping in New Hampshire's White Mountains. She travelled to Canada, Hawaii, Florida, California, New York, Maryland and throughout New England, and even on a Caribbean cruise. She also appreciated theater, often attending performances at the Palace and Majestic Theaters.

The family would like to thank the Elliot VNA Hospice Care Team for their compassionate care they provided during these difficult times.

Services: Calling hours are Friday, March 6, 2026, from 9 to 11 AM at Connor-Healy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 537 Union Street, Manchester, NH.

A funeral service will follow in the funeral home at 11 AM.

A private Burial will take place in St. Joseph Cemetery at a later date.

For more information visit: www.connorhealy.com.